Burning Questions

December 23, 2022

What’s the Large Building Under Construction Next to Highway 101?

"I've been wondering what the story is with the metal building going up next to Highway 101 at the southbound Patterson exit. Caltrans? Union Pacific?" —J. 7

December 11, 2022

Who Bought the Former St. Mary’s Seminary—and Why?

"A couple of weeks ago, the St. Mary's seminary up on Las Canoas Road was auctioned off," wrote N. "Can you find out who bought it and what his or her plans are?" 1

October 6, 2022

What Will Happen to the SBPD Building When the New Building Is Completed?

The big decision will be whether to thoroughly renovate the existing building on E. Figueroa Street or tear it down.

August 16, 2022

How Does the City Decide to Mark Bike Lanes?

"We've traveled around California a lot over the last four decades and noticed that many cities have adopted green pavement markings for bike lanes and shared lanes. But Santa Barbara hasn't followed suit. Cabrillo Boulevard, in particular, has become very dangerous for cyclists." —N.

August 2, 2022

What’s the Story With This House on W. Cota Street?

"There's a big house with a lot of parking at the corner of W. Cota Street and Bradbury Avenue. What's it used for?" —J. 4

June 26, 2022

What Are Those Little Houses on Santa Barbara Street?

"Small house-like buildings have shown up on Santa Barbara Street between Figueroa and Carrillo. What are they?" —F. 2

April 13, 2022

Can Anything Be Done About Pacaso Owners Who Like to Party?

"We found out the hard way that a house near us is part of the vacation-ownership site Pacaso. We're wondering if this business model is legal in our area, because our new one-eighth-share neighbors are partying it up when they're in town." —M. 15

April 8, 2022

Which Highway 101 Exits Are Getting Renamed?

"I was driving north on the 101 when I noticed that the 'Summerland' exit is now called 'N Padaro Lane.' Why? And are more signage changes in store?" —W. 2

March 30, 2022

Why Is So Much of the Macy’s Store Empty?

"What's going on at the Macy's store in La Cumbre Plaza? The second floor is empty and there are toys on the ground floor." —D. 1

March 9, 2022

Will Delta Air Lines Ever Reinstate Service to Santa Barbara Airport?

"I was just wondering if there have been any updates to the announcement back in 2020 of Delta suspending service to SBA. I'd love to know if/when the airline is returning." —S.